Managing Anxiety in Children & Teens During Transition Times

Life transitions—such as starting a new school term, changing routines, moving house or returning after holidays—can trigger anxiety in children and teenagers. While some may adapt quickly, others can feel overwhelmed by uncertainty and shifts in their environment. These moments of change can impact emotional wellbeing, social confidence and daily functioning.

This blog provides guidance for parents and carers on how to support children and teens during periods of transition, with practical strategies to reduce anxiety and build resilience.

Why Transitions Can Trigger Anxiety

Transition times often involve change, unpredictability and loss of control. While some children and teenagers thrive in new situations, others may feel nervous, worried or resistant. They might experience mixed emotions—excitement about new opportunities alongside fear of the unknown.

Emotional responses can vary depending on developmental stage, personality, past experiences and support systems. Recognising and validating these feelings is key to easing anxiety.

Practical Strategies to Manage Anxiety During Transitions

1. Encourage Open Conversations

Create a safe space to talk about worries. You might say:

• “It’s normal to feel nervous when things change.”
• “How are you feeling about what’s coming up?”
• “What’s one thing you’re looking forward to?”

Let them know that experiencing worry does not mean something is wrong—it’s a sign that they care.

2. Stay Calm and Positive

Children and teens often reflect how adults respond to change. Express confidence in their ability to manage what’s ahead. Your reassurance can help reduce anxiety and promote resilience.

3. Provide Realistic and Age-Appropriate Information

If anxiety is based on uncertainty or fear, gently share helpful information. For example, if they are worried about being behind academically, explain that teachers expect adjustment time and will help them settle in.

4. Reintroduce Routine Gradually

Begin re-establishing regular bedtimes, morning routines and screen time boundaries at least a week before a transition. Consistency provides predictability, which helps reduce anxiety.

5. Offer Choices and Control

Transitions can feel overwhelming if everything changes at once. Allow small decisions such as:

• Selecting their lunch
• Planning after-school activities
• Choosing their clothes or study schedule

Small elements of control can lower anxiety.

6. Reconnect Socially Before Transition

Organise a catch-up with friends or classmates to re-establish social connections. Familiarity often boosts confidence and can help ease pre-transition nerves.

7. Validate Their Experience

Communicate that it’s okay to struggle and that everyone adapts at their own pace. Focus on progress, not perfection.

8. Seek Support If Anxiety Persists

If you notice prolonged anxiety, avoidance or ongoing emotional or behavioural difficulties, consider seeking professional support.

Psychologists are highly trained in supporting children and teens through periods of change using evidence-based strategies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Early Signs Your Child or Teen May Be Struggling

• Refusing to engage or attend school or activities
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Withdrawing from family or friends
• Emotional outbursts or irritability
• Frequent complaints of stomach aches or headaches
• Reduced interest in normally enjoyable activities

If symptoms last longer than two weeks or begin impacting daily life, professional assistance may be beneficial.

Children aged 5+ can also contact Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

FAQs: Managing Emotional Transitions in Youth

Why do children and teenagers struggle with change?
Transitions disrupt routine and predictability. Reduced control, uncertainty or fear of failure can trigger anxiety.

How early should I prepare them for a change?
Ideally around one week in advance, with gradual reintroduction to routines and open conversations.

Can anxiety during transitions resolve without intervention?
Yes, many adjust with time and support. However, if symptoms persist, guidance from a psychologist may help.

How can I boost confidence before a transition?
Focus on their strengths, reconnect socially, remind them of past times they adapted successfully.

What strategies work best for teens specifically?
Encouraging autonomy, validating feelings, supporting peer connection and practising coping techniques such as breathing exercises or mindfulness.

If your child or teen is finding change difficult, our psychologists can provide practical strategies to reduce anxiety and build resilience.

To begin the process, download our referral form and discuss it with your GP to obtain a referral.

Your support can help them navigate transitions with confidence, one step at a time.

Helensvale: (07) 5551 0251

Mount Gravatt: (07) 3102 1366

Nerang: (07) 5668 3490

Disclaimer: Content on this website is provided for education and information purposes only and is not intended to replace advise from your doctor or registered health professional. Readers are urged to consult their registered practitioner for diagnosis and treatment for their medical concerns.